During October, visitors will be equipped with Big Draw packs which will allow them to capture the site through art.

The theme across the estate is inspired by the Year of Natural Scotland and will include the opportunity to draw the view from one of the windows on site, reinforcing the link between the historical and the natural world.

Kirsten Wood, Education Officer for Historic Scotland said;

“The Big Draw is a fantastic opportunity for those who have an interest in drawing –

be they a budding artist or have never drawn before, to get involved.

“This year we have decided to focus on the natural world and are asking visitors to capture the view from one of the windows on each site, although we’re obviously more than happy for them to get inspired and capture different aspects of the site too.

“It’s amazing how one person can interpret the same view or building in a different way and we’re really looking forward to seeing the results.

“With the school holidays coming up it’s a great way to keep the kids entertained and to channel their imaginations.”

The Big Draw was founded in 2000 and is intended to help raise awareness of drawing as a tool for thought, creativity, social and cultural engagement. This year more than 200,000 people are expected to take part in fifteen countries.

Historic Scotland is an executive agency of the Scottish Government charged with safeguarding the nation’s historic environment. The agency is fully accountable to Scottish Ministers and through them to the Scottish Parliament.

2013 is the Year of Natural Scotland, inspiring our people and our visitors to celebrate Scotland’s outstanding natural beauty, landscapes and biodiversity as Scotland prepares to welcome the world in 2014 and beyond. Find out more about Scotland’s outstanding natural beauty at www.visitscotland.com/natural